Prosecutors Demand Over Seven Years for Marius Borg Høiby Amid Multiple Charges
Marius Borg Høiby, son of Norway’s crown princess, faces a potential prison sentence exceeding seven years if convicted of 39 offences, including four rapes and assaults, prosecutors stated.
On Wednesday, during the penultimate day of the extensive trial at Oslo district court, which has lasted over six weeks, the prosecution asserted their belief in Høiby’s guilt for 39 of the 40 charges brought against him. These charges encompass rape, domestic abuse, multiple breaches of restraining orders, assault, as well as drug and driving offences.
One charge, specifically a violation of a restraining order, has been dismissed. Høiby, aged 29, has admitted guilt to several lesser offences but denies the four alleged rapes.
The trial is scheduled to conclude on Thursday, after which the judges may take several months to reach a verdict.
Victims Testify Amid Intense Media Scrutiny
Throughout the proceedings, several alleged victims have provided testimony, including Høiby’s former partner, who is known as an influencer and reality television personality. The case has attracted significant media attention both within Norway and internationally.
This trial unfolds during a challenging period for Norway’s royal family.
Høiby’s mother, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, faces increasing pressure to clarify her associations with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following the release of emails by the US Department of Justice in January as part of the Epstein files. The royal palace announced this week that Mette-Marit, who suffers from pulmonary fibrosis, will not participate in an upcoming state visit due to a decline in her health.
Prosecution's Sentencing Request and Additional Measures
The prosecution has requested a prison sentence of seven years and seven months for Høiby. Additional requests include a two-year ban on contacting one of the alleged victims, confiscation of several electronic devices such as three iPhones and a MacBook, revocation of his driving licence, and a two-year driving ban after which he must pass a new driving test.
State attorney Sturla Henriksbø emphasized the gravity of the offences:
“These are very serious acts. It is among the most serious offences in our criminal code to apply to violations of integrity. And it should entail a strict and tangible reaction in each case.”
Regarding the allegation that Høiby filmed the alleged abuse, Henriksbø stated:
“Involves an increased violation of the women.”
Police Attorney Opposes Sentence Reduction Despite Media Attention
Police attorney Andreas Kruszewski argued against any reduction in sentence due to media exposure, stating:
“The fact that you commit criminal acts after the media spotlight has been directed at you as a well-known person contributes to the fact that he should not receive a reduction in sentence.”
